‘The problem is…’ – Andoni Iraola delivers worrying Cody Gakpo injury update ahead of Fulham clash
Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola has admitted that Cody Gakpo remains a doubt for Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Fulham following an adductor problem.
The Dutch forward picked up the issue during Liverpool’s victory over Ipswich last week and was subsequently left out of Wednesday night’s Champions League win over Atletico Madrid as a precaution.
Speaking after the 2-1 triumph at Anfield, Iraola explained that Gakpo does not have a serious injury but is still struggling with discomfort in both adductors.
“I don’t know. I hope so, but I don’t know,” Iraola said. “He doesn’t have a proper injury, but he finished with niggles in both of the adductors the other day.”
The Liverpool manager revealed that the club had expected Gakpo to be available against Atletico, but his recovery has not progressed quickly enough.
“It’s not a big thing, but the problem is we play here in two days and a half,” he added.
Liverpool will now carefully monitor Gakpo during the next couple of days before deciding whether he can feature against Fulham.
Iraola also provided clarification on Bradley Barcola, who was substituted during the Atletico game after going down on the pitch. The manager indicated that the winger was suffering from cramp rather than a serious injury.
With Liverpool facing another quick turnaround, Iraola may choose not to take unnecessary risks with either player. Gakpo has made an impressive start to the campaign, registering one goal and three assists in his opening three league games.
The Reds will be hoping both Gakpo and Barcola recover in time for Saturday, although Hugo Ekitike and Federico Chiesa remain unavailable.
For now, Iraola has refused to guarantee that Gakpo will be fit, leaving Liverpool fans waiting for a further update ahead of the Fulham clash.
